He stood to attention, gave me a military salute, and vanished in the darkness.
"At last!" I murmured, with a sigh of relief. Eleven o'clock was striking as I entered the Grand Duchess's apartments.
* * * * * *
She was alone in her boudoir, standing, rather pale.
As I entered, my expression must have told her that something unusual had happened, for she asked no questions as to why I was late.
"Anything serious?" she asked simply.
"Nothing, madame. But we must be quick. We've only just time."
As we reached the door leading to the staircase the door of Melusine's room opened and Fräulein von Graffenfried appeared.
"What!" she said. "So soon?"
"Yes," said Aurora. "I forgot to tell you we decided to make it an hour earlier. Don't be alarmed, dear. Stay here and don't let any one in. We shall be back before midnight."